Security

Adeleke Lauds DSS on Arrest of Suspected Bandits

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By Funmi Ojo

The governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has commended the personnel of the Department of State Services, DSS, on the successful operation, that led to the arrest of 10 suspected members of Boko Haram/Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Ilesa, Osun State.

Governor Adeleke, in a statement by his Spokesperson, Mallam Rasheed Olawale lauds the alertness of security operatives, to eliminate the threats posed by the suspected terrorists, which gives further assurance that the security agencies are up to the task of sustaining peace and security of every part of Nigeria.

The governor particularly commends the intelligence gathering of the personnel of the Department of State Service, who have painstakingly monitored the activities of the suspected criminals and moved swiftly to cut off their dastardly act.

“This is a welcome development and a big relief, not just for us as a government but to the people of the state and Nigeria in general. I commend the security operatives for their alertness and intelligence-driven operation. We have absolute confidence in our security forces to keep protecting us”.

Governor Adeleke assures that his administration will continue to cooperate with security agencies and support their operations to ensure maximum protection of the lives and property of the Osun State people, noting that this remains his top priority.

He enjoins residents of Osun State to continue to be watchful, and report any suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods to the relevant security agencies, while assuring that the state will continue to be a peaceful state under his watch.

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Crime

EFCC Detains Emefiele after Release by DSS

By Web News 282 0

Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, is currently being detained in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

Emefiele, who is currently being interrogated at the National Headquarters of the anti-graft agency, Jabi, Abuja, was picked up by EFCC operatives Thursday night, less than an hour after he regained his freedom from the dungeon of the Department of State Services.

An impeccable source revealed the development to our correspondent Friday morning, noting that the EFCC is probing Emefiele over alleged impropriety during his term as the head of the apex bank.

“Yes, Emefiele is currently in our (EFCC) custody; he was arrested last night less than an hour after the DSS freed him. He’s currently being interrogated at the Headquarters, as he’s being investigated for alleged misappropriation of funds amongst other things during his term as CBN governor,” the source noted.

Our correspondent further gathered that fresh charges may be filed against Mr Emefiele by the EFCC.

Meanwhile, the spokesperson for the EFCC, Dele Oyewale, could not be reached for official confirmation when contacted by our correspondent on Friday.

The PUNCH reports that Emefiele had been in the custody of the Department of State Services since June after President Bola Tinubu suspended him from office.

He was thereafter asked to transfer his responsibilities to Folashodun Adebisi Shonubi, then deputy governor, operations directorate at the apex bank.

A day after, the DSS announced that Emefiele was in its custody for ‘some investigative reasons’.

On July 25, he was arraigned on a two-count charge bordering on “illegal possession” of firearms at a federal high court in Lagos and was granted bail in the sum of N20 million.

The two-count charge was later struck out on August 17 after the Federal Government withdrew the same.

However, a fresh 20-count charge was instituted against him over an alleged conspiracy to carry out procurement fraud, among others.

The arraignment has been stalled twice, and Emefiele was reported to have proposed a plea bargain agreement with the Federal Government.

The proposed agreement required Emefiele to resign as CBN governor and ‘disgorge’ some assets.

However, on September 22, the CBN officially confirmed Emefiele’s resignation after Olayemi Cardoso was appointed as substantive governor of the apex bank

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Judiciary

DSS Detention : Bawa Heads to Court

By Web News 339 0

The embattled former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, has sued the Department of State Services, DSS, for his continued detention without trial since June 14, 2023.

In the suit filed at the Lagos Division of the Federal High Court for the Enforcement of Fundamental Rights, brought by one Barrister Chinedu Oburu of Edu Oburu & Co, Bawa sought an order of the court to declare his detention without trial as illegal and to direct his immediate release.

In the suit filed on October 20, 2023, the former EFCC chairman sought the following orders:

“A Declaration that the continued detention of the Applicant from June 14, 2023 till date without arraignment or criminal prosecution is a fragrant abuse and violation of his fundamental rights to freedom, liberty, and personal dignity.

“AN Order directing the Respondent to immediately release the Applicant from custody.

“And for further or other orders as the Court may deem fit to make in the circumstances.”

In an affidavit in support of the application before the court, the legal practitioner stated that the government of former President Muhammadu Buhari appointed the applicant as the Chairman of the EFCC, one of the government institutions established to fight and curb corruption in Nigeria.

He noted that the applicant was suspended from office by the Federal Government on June 14, 2023, and was subsequently invited for interrogation by the respondent (SSS) herein.

He said, “That upon arrival at the offices of the respondent on June 14, 2023, the applicant was promptly detained.

“That since June 14, 2023 (over 120 days) that the applicant was detained, he has remained in the respondent’s detention facility without any criminal charge or trial proffered against him till date.

“That the continued illegal detention of the Chairman of the EFCC without any charge is an affront and assault on the fight against corruption in Nigeria.

“That the continued and indefinite detention of the EFCC chairman without any criminal charge is a necked assault on the Fundamental Rights of the Applicant as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).”

He, however, stated that he brought the action in the overall interest of the applicant, the Nigerian public, democracy and rule of law in Nigeria, and the need to sustain the anti-corruption spirit and momentum.

 

Vanguard / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Security

DSS Frees Former EFCC Chairman, Bawa

By Web News 344 0

Abdulrasheed Bawa, the former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has been released after spending over 3months in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The DSS, through its Director of Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Peter Afunaya, announced Bawa’s release late on Wednesday.

Bawa’s arrest came immediately after his suspension by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on allegations of abuse of office.

During the investigation, former Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle, also accused Bawa of soliciting a $2 million bribe from him, an allegation that Bawa has denied.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had earlier filed a motion appealing the ruling of the Court of Appeal sentencing its Chairman, Abubakar Bawa to prison.

The Commission, in a motion before the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, also asked for a stay of execution of the judgment of the Kogi State High Court delivered on December 12, 2022, and the consequential order made on February 6, 2023, in the suit between the EFCC and Ali Bello

Following Bawa’s departure, Ola Olukoyede has taken over as the new EFCC Chairman.

Oluwaseyi Ajibade

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Crime

Security Operatives Begin Search for Corps Member Abducted in Zamfara

By Web News 308 0

The National Youth Service Corps has said its Director General, Brig. Gen. Yusha’u Ahmed is working with the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the military brigade to secure the release of eight corps members kidnapped in Zamfara State on Saturday.

The NYSC Director, Press and Public Relations, Eddy Megwa, made the development known on Wednesday.

“As I speak to you, the NYSC DG is in Zamfara state, and the NYSC is currently working with the police, the military brigade, and the DSS to release the eight corps members that were kidnapped in Zamfara,” Megwa said.

Gunmen had abducted eight members of the NYSC on a highway in Zamfara on Saturday. The corps members were travelling inside an AKTC bus from Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to Sokoto State, en route to Zamfara State, to take part in the mandatory national service.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Security

Security Alert: DSS Warns of Imminent Attack on Abuja-Kaduna Train

By Web News 464 0

The Department of the State Services, DSS, has in a leaked memo to the Nigeria Railway Corporation, NRC, warned against bandits attack along Abuja-Kaduna Train.

The secret service in memo titled: Security Alert: ‘Impending Threat By A Coalition Of Banditry Syndicate To Attack Abuja-Kaduna Train Service Along AKTS Corridor’, advised other security agents to deploy troops in the stated area, to stop this from happening.

It would be recalled that gunmen on the 28 March 2022, attacked an Abuja–Kaduna train in Katari, Kaduna State, and kidnaped many passengers.

However, in a leaked letter signed by DSS Director FCT Command, R.N. Adepemu, the secret service cautioned train passengers to be careful and security alert.

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Education

Protest in Osun Poly over School Closure

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By Adenitan Akinola

Some students of the Osun State Polythecnic Iree, Thursday afternoon stormed the state Secretariat Abere in protest of the closure of their school.

The Students numbering about one hundred moved from Olaiya flyover through OgoOluwa to the State secretariat singing solidarity songs.

At the State Secretariat, an attempt to force their way into the complex was resisted by a combined team of Police, DSS and Civil Defense operatives who shot the gate against the protesting students.

Written on the placards displayed by the students included “Governor Adeleke, open our school. We want to resume in Iree. We are tired of sitting down at home ” among others 

In an ensuing argument with the police, the students Union President of the Institution, Mr Azeez Agboola explained that the closure of the school was caused by the state which imposed a Rector on the Institution, a development which led to the withdrawal of service by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic of the school.

Mr Agboola called on the Governor to resolve the impasse and allow the students to continue with their exams which was suspended due to the Rectorship crisis.

As at the time of this report at 14:08 hours, no government officials has attended to the students who are currently occupying the road leading to the Secretariat.

Details later.

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News

Court tells DSS to Release or Charge Emiefele within 7 Days

By Web News 375 0

A high court of the Federal Capital Territory on Thursday issued a one-week ultimatum to the Department of State Security Service to either charge the detained suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Godwin Emefiele to Court or release him.

According to the report, Justice Hamza Muazu gave the order while delivering a ruling in a fundamental human rights suit instituted against the DSS and others by Emefiele.

Justice Muazu held that the DSS has the power to carry out its constitutional duties of making arrests, detaining, and ensuring the prevention of internal crime.

However, he maintained that such duties must be carried out within the ambit of the law.

Details later…

PUNCH/Taiwo Akinola

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Crime

DSS Quizzes Ex- EFCC Chair, Bawa        

By Web News 1047 0

The suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Abdulrasheed Bawa, is being interrogated by operatives of the Department of State Services over his activities in the anti-graft agency.

The Spokesman for the DSS, Dr Peter Afunanya, confirmed the invitation and arrival of Bawa at the secret police for the probe in a statement sent to Vanguard.

The statement said: “The Department of State Services (DSS) has invited Mr. Abdulrasheed Bawa, the suspended Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

“Bawa arrived a few hours ago. The invitation relates to some investigative activities concerning him”.

The grilling of the EFCC chairman comes barely hours after he was indefinitely suspended from office by the President.

Culled / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Crime

DSS Confirms Emefiele’s Arrest

By Web News 370 0

The Department of State Services, DSS, has finally confirmed that Godwin Emefiele, the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria,CBN, is in its custody.

The official confirmation of the whereabout of Emefiele was contained in a press release by the Public Relations Officer, DSS, Peter Afunanya, PhD fsi.

The DSS spokesperson further stated that Emefiele put in custody for some investigative reasons.

He, however, admonished the public, especially the media, to be cautious in their narratives and reportage concerning the development.

This effectively put paid to speculations surrounding the arrest of Emefiele, whose suspension was announced by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, late Friday evening.

“The Department of State Services (DSS) hereby confirms that Mr Godwin Emefiele, the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), is now in its custody for some investigative reasons.

“The public, particularly the Media, is enjoined to apply utmost caution in the reportage and narratives concerning this,” the DSS spokesperson stated in the release dated 10 June, 2023.

Culled/Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Crime

Just in: DSS Arrests Emefiele

By Web News 542 0

Suspended Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele, has been arrested by the Department of State Security Services, DSS.
The news of Emefiele arrest was made now on Bayo Onanuga Twitter page @aonanuga1956.
According to reports, the DSS apprehended Emefiele, shortly after his suspension by President Bola Tinubu on Friday evening.
Following his suspension, Emefiele was instructed to transfer the responsibilities of his office to the Deputy Governor (Operations Directorate), who will serve as the acting Central Bank Governor until the investigation and necessary reforms are completed.
It would be recall that the DSS had filed its case (ex-parte motion) against Emefiele on December 7, 2022, seeking permission to arrest, probe and detain him. However, on December 9, a federal high court in Abuja declined the application filed by the DSS.
Emefiele is accused of the following by the DSS of funding unknown gunmen, ESN and IPOB with money he raised for his failed presidential bid last year and funds diverted from government coffers.
He was also accused of mismanagement of Nigeria’s social investment program (NISRAL and the Anchor Borrowers Scheme); Illegal economic crimes of National security dimension; Money Laundering; Unwholesome activities through proxies; Round tripping and Conferment of financial benefits to self and others.
Culled/Oluwayemisi Owonikoko
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Security

APC, PDP Tell DSS to Arrest Interim Government Plotters

By Web News 355 0

The presidential campaign councils of the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party have challenged the Department of State Services to get tough with plotters of the interim national government.

The councils, in separate interviews with The PUNCH on Wednesday in Abuja, said the push for the ING was unconstitutional, adding that the plotters should be arrested.

They spoke against the backdrop of a statement issued by the security agency that some people were plotting the ING.

The DSS had earlier on Wednesday raised the alarm over a plot by some Nigerians to thwart the May 29 inauguration of the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

The DSS, in a statement in Abuja by its Spokesman, Dr Peter Afunanya, alleged that those behind the plot planned to undermine civil rule and foist an interim government on the country.

The Independent National Electoral Commission had on March 1 declared Tinubu the winner of the February 25 presidential election.

The APC presidential candidate polled 8,794,726 votes to defeat the PDP candidate, Atiku Abubakar, who got 6,984,520 votes and the Labour Party’s Peter Obi that had 6,101,533 votes.

A day after the result was declared, Atiku and Obi at separate press conferences on March 2 rejected the outcome on the grounds that the election was rigged.

Also, a former Anambra State Governor Chukwuemeka Ezeife, stated that Tinubu would not be sworn in as President.

Speaking on Channels Television on March 23, the vice-presidential candidate of the LP, Datti Baba-Ahmed, said the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, must not swear in Tinubu on May 29.

Some protesters under the aegis of the Free Nigeria Movement on Tuesday last week, asked the President, Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) to annul the February 25 presidential election and set up an interim government.

But hundreds of pro-Tinubu protesters, under the aegis of ‘The Natives’, stormed the streets of Abuja on Monday, warning against the imposition of an ING.

However, in the statement it issued on Wednesday, the DSS said it had identified some key players in the plot for an ING.

It stated, “The service considers the plot, being pursued by these entrenched interests, as not only an aberration but a mischievous way to set aside the constitution and undermine civil rule as well as plunge the country into an avoidable crisis. The illegality is totally unacceptable in a democracy and to the peace-loving Nigerians.’’

The security agency alleged that the plot was taking place after the peaceful conduct of the elections in most parts of the country.

It added, “The planners, in their many meetings, have weighed various options, which include, among others, to sponsor endless violent mass protests in major cities to warrant a declaration of State of Emergency. Another is to obtain frivolous court injunctions to forestall the inauguration of new executive administrations and legislative houses at the federal and state levels.

“The DSS supports the President and Commander-in-Chief in his avowed commitment to a hitch-free handover and will assiduously work in this direction. It also supports the Presidential Transition Council and other related bodies in the states.’’

The DSS added that it would collaborate with PTC and other law enforcement agencies to ensure seamless inaugurations in May.

Consequently, the Service strongly warns those organising to thwart democracy in the country to retract from their devious schemes and orchestrations.

“Stakeholders, notably judicial authorities, media and the Civil Society, are enjoined to be watchful and cautious to avoid being used as instruments to subvert peace and stability of the nation.

“While its monitoring continues, the DSS will not hesitate to take decisive and necessary legal steps against these misguided elements to frustrate their obnoxious intentions,’’ it further warned.

Commenting on the plot, the Director of Strategic Communications for the APC PCC, Idris Mohammed, said the DSS should arrest the plotters.

Mohammed warned that the APC PCC would go all out to ensure nothing hinders a smooth swearing-in of Tinubu.

He said, “The APC PCC is aligned with the position of the DSS, which we believe is doing its job. If this statement is coming directly from the DSS itself, it means that it is not an empty allegation. In any case, we believe the security agencies are also there to deal with this kind of situation. That is why they are there. Their duty is to thwart any threat against the Nigerian nation. They should react to it and go the extra mile to pin down those also responsible.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Crime

DSS, Police foil Attempted Assassination of Osun Speaker

By Web News 405 0

Mojisola Oladele

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Mr.Timothy Owoeye has escaped being assassinated by people suspected to be political thugs.

It took the gallantry of the men of the Department of State Services and the Police officers attached to the office of the Speaker that repelled the assailants, who arrived at the premises of the Speaker at around 2 am,  shooting sporadically at the building.

A statement by the media Aide to the Speaker, Mr Kunle Alabi made available to Newsmen indicates that business outfits of State Assembly Member, representing Ilesa West, Mr. Wale Adedoyin and Mr. Folarin Fafowora, the immediate past Chairman of Ilesa West Central LCDA in Ilesa were vandalized. 

Mr Owoeye called on The Nigeria Police and other relevant security agencies to be alive to their constitutional responsibility of protecting the lives and properties of the Citizenry. 

The Statement adds that about 5 members of the APC had been killed in a gruesome manner across Eti-Oni in Atakumosa East, Oke Aga and Ilesa.

 Owoeye said, “In the early hours of today 22nd February an assassination attempt was made on my life if not for divine Providence the story would have been different. I want to salute the security man who stood their ground to prevent my assailants from carrying out their aim.

“Recall that last week, I released a  press release to my the word about the killings of Ebenezer Alaro, a member of our party whose only crime was to drive a Capstar Truck used to convey the public address system we used for our rally from Monday through Thursday, the guy was trailed home after the Thursday rally was killed in front of his parent’s house.

“I was also informed this morning that and electrification projects which I have expanded over 15 million naira on in Oke Aga have been destroyed and riddled with bullets. I sympathize with the community that will be thrown into darkness because of this senseless politics.

“The recent happening in Osun is becoming worrisome and needs proper attention from every well-meaning citizen, the return of political thuggery after about 12 years of the All Progressive Congress APC Administration in the states now gives residents and citizens sleepless nights.

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Security

EFCC Releases Doyin Okupe

By Web News 442 0

The former Director-General (DG) of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), Doyin Okupe, said he has been released by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Lagos.

One of Okupe’s lawyers, Tolu Babaleye who spoke to newsmen on the subject matter, on Thursday, said the DSS asked him to provide court processes where he paid the fine option following his money laundering conviction by the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.

Subsequently, he was handed over to the EFCC, with the Spokesman of the Service, Peter Afunanya, confirming Okupe “was intercepted at the instance of the EFCC”.

The Ogun-born politician fumed at the development. According to him, EFCC officials later apologised for embarrassing him.

Doyin Okupe, was reportedly arrested by the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

One of Okupe’s lawyers, Tolu Babaleye confirmed this on Facebook on Thursday, saying the former DG was on his way to London when he was arrested.

He claimed that the DSS asked him to provide court processes where he paid the fine option following his money laundering conviction by the Federal High Court, Abuja.

“The reason according to the source is that he was asked to produce evidence that the Federal High Court Abuja has freed him from the case in which he was convicted and paid a fine to the knowledge of the whole world and was allowed to go home.

“When will this harassment stop? Who is after Dr. Okupe? As of today, the man has no case to answer, I hereby demand that the DSS should release my client immediately as this is a violation of his freedom of movement, right to liberty and dignity as a human person. This is unfair as the man’s health is fast failing,” he stated.

Muzha Kucha

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Judiciary

Court Stops Arrest of Emefiele for Alleged Terrorism

By Web News 428 0

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, has declined an application by the Department of State Services (DSS) to arrest and detain the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin Emefiele.

Justice Tsoho, while declining the motion ex-parte filed by an applicant in the absence of the respondent, said the secret police did not provide any concrete evidence to substantiate its claims that Emefiele was involved in terrorism financing and economic crimes.

At the proceeding, the Judge noted that the name of the respondent was given simply as ‘Godwin Emefiele’ without a material disclosure that he is the same person as the CBN Governor.

“In the light of the foregoing reasons, I decline to grant this application ex parte. If the applicant believes that the evidence available to it so far is sufficient, then it can as well arrest and detain the applicant, even without the order of the court. If however the applicant desires to still pursue this application, then it should place the respondent on notice considering the sensitive public office that he occupies,” the judge said.

Justice Tsoho, therefore, refused to entertain the suit until credible evidence is brought before the court as to the reason why the court should grant the request.

The move by the DSS comes after the recent controversial decisions of the CBN to redesign the 200, 500 and 1000 naira notes, as part of the measure to reduce the quantity of cash outside of its control, and discourage certain criminal activities such as kidnapping for ransom.

It also follows its announcement of a new policy limiting cash withdrawals for individuals and corporate bodies.

Both decisions have been viewed by some segments of the society, especially politicians as detrimental to their activities in the run-up to the 2023 general elections.

Channels / Titilayo Kupoliyi

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Security

Alleged Withdrawal: It is Police, DSS Affair- Adeleke Spokesperson

By Web News 371 0

The Osun State Government says the alleged withdrawal of security personnel from Governor Ademola Adeleke has nothing to do with the Governor according to some reports.

A statement by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed clarify that the issue is a minor disagreement between officers of the Department of State Service and the Police. 

The statement indicates that the matter has been reported to the headquarters of the two security agencies for resolution.

While assuring members of the public that there is no cause for alarm, the statement adds that the Governor is fully secured and governance is proceeding without hindrance.

It would be recalled that there was a report by some online media about the Authority of DSS directing the Withdrawal of their officers from the Governor for alleging that they were insulted by the Governor.

Funmi Adekoya

Security

DSS Seeks Cooperation over New Security Alert

By Web News 462 0

The Department of State Services (DSS) has called for calm as it works with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to maintain peace and order in and beyond Abuja.

On Sunday, the United States and Britain issued a travel advisory of a possible terrorist attack in Abuja, targeting government buildings, places of worship and schools, among other public places.

This has heightened tension in the FCT and neighbouring states.

“The public may recall that the Service had variously issued similar warnings in the past”, a statement by the DSS says.

DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, said everyone should remain alert and assist security agencies with valuable information.

Muzha Kucha

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Crime

DSS Gets Permission to Extend Tukur Mamu’s Detention

By Web News 332 0

A Federal High Court in Abuja has granted a prayer by the Department of State Services, DSS, to detain the former terrorists’ negotiator, Tukur Mamu, for 60 more days.

Justice Nkeonye Maha, in a short ruling on the ex-parte motion moved by counsel for the DSS, Ahmed Magaji, granted the motion as prayed.

The security outfit, in the motion, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1617/2022 dated and filed September 12, had urged the court to grant its reliefs to enable it to conclude its investigation on Mamu, who had been leading the negotiation with the terrorists for the release of the Abuja-Kaduna train passengers kidnapped in March.

Mamu was arrested in Cairo, the capital of Egypt, on September 6, with his family members by foreign security agents on his way to Saudi Arabia for lesser Hajj, and was detained at Cairo International Airport before being repatriated back to Nigeria.

The DSS, on Sunday, warned Nigerians over making comments on its arrest of Mamu.

The DSS, in a statement by its spokesman, Peter Afunaya, asked the public to leave the agency alone and allow it to concentrate on the investigations which it said the outcomes had been “mindboggling.”

This came hours after the Islamic cleric, Sheik Gumi, to whom Mamu is an aide, had faulted the arrest of the negotiator.

Gumi, at a religious gathering on Friday in Kaduna, had asked the security agency to charge Mamu to court if it had any evidence against him, rather than keeping him in custody.

Reacting in its statement, the security outfit said, “The DSS has followed, with keen observation, overzealous comments by sections of the public in view of issues relating to the arrest and investigation of Tukur Mamu.”

“The service wishes to state that it is not distracted by some of the skewed narratives pervading the media space. Instead, it requests to be left alone to concentrate on the ongoing investigations, the outcomes of which have remained mindboggling.

“Meanwhile, the service will cease further comments on the subject matter since the court will determine its course.”

“Consequently, the public is hereby enjoined to desist from making unguarded utterances and await the court proceedings.” the DSS added

NAN/Maxwell Oyekunle

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Crime

DSS Raids Tukur Mamu’s Kaduna Residence

By Web News 389 0

Operatives of the Department of State Services, DSS have raided the Kaduna residence of the arrested terrorists’ negotiator, Tukur Mamu.  

Mamu, who is the lead negotiator between terrorists and passengers kidnapped from a Kaduna-bound train in March, was arrested in Egypt on September 6, 2022. 

In a statement, DSS Spokesman, Peter Afunanya, who confirmed Mamu’s arrest in a statement on Wednesday, said the agency was grilling him over security issues.

The operatives reportedly came with about 20 vehicles in what a witness described as a commando-styled operation in the early hours of Thursday, September 8.

“They ransacked the house and carted away documents, phones and laptops,”

 It was also gathered that the operatives went to his office in Kaduna after raiding his house.

FRCN Abuja/Fany Olumoye

Crime

Owo Church Attack: Defence Hqr Confirms Arrest of Additional Two suspected Attackers

By Web News 436 0

The Defence Headquarters on Thursday said two additional suspected terrorists linked with the Owo attack have been arrested.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, had during a meeting with media executives and editors on Tuesday announced the arrest of some suspected terrorists including the mastermind of Owo attack.

In a statement on Thursday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Jimmy Akpor, said the duo of Al-Qasim Idris and Abdulhaleem Idris were arrested at the Omialafara (Omulafa), Ose LGA in Ondo State during a joint operation with the DSS, Police.

The statement titled, ‘Arrest of two additional suspected terrorists in connection with the Owo Catholic Church on June 5,2022.’ reads, “Recall that the Chief of Defence Staff during his parley with media executives and editors yesterday, Tuesday 9 August 2022, informed of the arrest of 4 terrorists among those who carried out the attack on St Francis Catholic Church, Owo on 5 June 2022.

“They were arrested through a combined operation by military and DSS personnel at Eika, Okehi LGA, Kogi State on 1 August 2022. Those arrested include Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza (a.k.a Bin Malik), Momoh Otohu Abubakar, Aliyu Yusuf Itopa and Auwal Ishaq Onimisi.

“Barely few hours after the disclosure by the CDS of the arrest of four of the Owo Catholic Church attackers, two additional ISWAP terrorists, who were also connected to the attack on the church were apprehended at Omialafara (Omulafa), Ose LGA, Ondo State yesterday, August 9 2022.

“The arrests were made through the collaborative effort by military and DSS personnel. The suspects are Al-Qasim Idris and Abdulhaleem Idris. ”

He, however, said that Abdulhaleem, alongside other high profile ISWAP commanders, had previously coordinated attacks on military targets in Okene, Okene LGA, Kogi State, which led to the death of many.

Punch/Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

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Crime

Owo Church Attack: CDS, Akeredolu Confirm Suspect’s Arrest

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Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor, has disclosed that some of the suspected terrorists linked to the attack on Saint Francis Catholic Church, Owo, two months ago, have been arrested.

Irabor made the disclosure during a parley with executives and editors of media organisations in Nigeria, on Tuesday.

He said the attackers were apprehended during joint operations involving the Armed Forces, the Department of Security Services (DSS) and the Police.

About 40 people were killed when gunmen attacked the church on June 5, opened fire on the congregation, and also detonated explosives.

Similarly, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has confirmed the arrest of the attackers of St Francis Catholic Church, Owo.

Governor Akeredolu made the disclosure when he hosted the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ Ondo State Council led by Chairman Comrade Leke Adegbite. 

Radio Nigeria correspondent reported that Governor Akeredolu disclosed that the owner of the house where the attackers stayed before the June 5 attack in Owo had also been arrested 

He said that government did not spare a moment in trailing the terrorists behind the Owo church attack.

Meanwhile, the Governor has sent a warning to leaders of the Ebira community in the state to caution their youths against venturing into kidnapping.

The Governor said recent reports from victims of kidnap in the state had established that some Ebira youths were part of the kidnap ring terrorizing the state. 

In a remark, The Ondo NUJ Chairman, Comrade Adegbite thanked the Governor for his efforts in ensuring the security of lives of the people of the state.

The NUJ Chairman also appreciated the Governor for the approval of the Weigh-in allowance for journalists and information officers working in the State and Local government service.

Culled/Titilayo Kupoliyi Isaac Afolabi

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News

DSS Warns Applicants against Fraudsters

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The Department of State Services has urged Nigerians to be wary of fraudsters, saying the service was currently not recruiting.

The DSS spokesperson, Peter Afunanya, in a statement on Friday, stated that the service does not recruit online, nor does it sell job application forms or demand money from job seekers before recruiting.

The statement read, “The Department of State Services wishes to notify the public that it is not currently recruiting.

“It also uses this opportunity to reiterate that it does not recruit online, sell job application forms or demand money from prospective employees (when and if it recruits).

“The public is, by this notice, advised, for the umpteenth time, to be wary of fraudsters who operate fake and misleading websites designed to fleece them.

Interested candidates are advised to make recruitment enquiries from the Service’s Headquarters, Abuja, its State Commands, other Formations nationwide, official website.”

Punch/ Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Security

We remain committed to ensuring security – Makinde

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Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has expressed the commitment of his administration to keep the state safe and secured.

He stated this while receiving the Association of Retired Officers of the Department of State Services of Nigeria (Oyo State Chapter), led by its Chairman, Alhaji Lateef Akinola.

Governor Makinde said he would continue to strengthen the security architecture in the state, explaining that the current administration would involve the retired officers of the Department of State Service, (DSS) with a view to improving the state’s security apparatus.

The governor, while appreciating the serving officers and men of the Department of State Services for their cooperation, added that his government would not relent in its efforts at providing adequate support for its smooth operation in the state.

“Let me use this opportunity to thank the serving officers and men of the Department of the State Services. They have cooperated with us and it is a good example of how a federal establishment has been professional in its operation. “Being in support of the state government has nothing to do with political party affiliation”.

The governor explained that the Western Nigerian Security Network, code-named Amotekun, has been acting professionally and protecting everybody in the state, adding that the Amotekun would continue to go against criminals in the state.

“We will also continue to strengthen the security architecture in Oyo State. And for me, this is a good opportunity to have another sort of security operatives and another side of thinking on how we do things in Oyo State. You should be assured of our support.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the association, Alhaji Lateef Akinola, commended the governor for his unique approach to the issue of security and taking care of their welfare, adding that the association is ready to support and cooperate with his administration.

“We appreciate your unique approach to the issue of security and the special interest of your government in the operational and welfare needs of security and intelligence agencies in the State, and we pledge our unalloyed support and cooperation in this respect”.

Iyabo Adebisi

News Security

Pandemonium in Osogbo, as Minister’s Security Aides Fire Sporadic Gunshots

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There was pandemonium in Osogbo,the Osun State Capital as sudden sporadic gunshots fired by security men attached to the Minister of Interior, Mr Rauf Aregbesola drove residents of the city into panic.


The shooting which happened about seven o’clock on Monday evening in the old garage area of the town, made residents,shopowners and passerby to scamper for safety.


It was difficult to ascertain what could be responsible for the shooting by the convoy of the Minister,who was a two term and immediate past Governor of the state.


However, the Osun State Government accused the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola for allegedly invading the state capital with armed thugs, shooting sporadically into the air to scare innocent people away from their businesses.


In a statement, the state Commissioner for Information, Mrs Funke Egbemode said “credible reports confirmed that some misguided cowards invaded Osogbo, the Osun State capital with armed thugs to foment trouble”.


“Their interest is simply to attempt to thwart the peace of the state and create fear in the minds of the good people of Osun counting on a long-lost influence.”


The statement adds that “Government of Osun hereby warns that there are no sacred cows in the state. No one is above the law here regardless of their past glories or future aspirations. Security agencies have been well briefed about the activities of these mischief makers, who have set themselves on a collision course with the law”.


But an aide to the Minister, Mr Bola Ilori said the security operatives attached to the Minister shot to repel an attempt attack on the former Governor. 


Mr Bola Ilori who served as Special Adviser on Environment under the Aregbesola’s administration wrote on his Facebook page, “Only a lazy man starts a wrestling match with cutlass and guns – Aregbe!!!”Oyetola thugs fired several gunshots at Aregbesola’s, Adeoti (Sheu) convoy after declaring his preferred choice for Governorship.

The attackers were repelled by combined efforts of Police, DSS, NSCDC and luckily no casually was recorded”.


Also, a resident, who claimed to be around the Old garage at the time of the shooting, Mr Lamina Kamorudeen told newsmen that  Shooting sporadically by the security men who were in company of the former Governor Aregbesola of the State of Osun in Osogbo today was but a misplacement of priority.


He said No matter what, Mr Aregbesola should remember Osun was a state he had once governed for a two term tenure. 

Adenitan Akinola

Judiciary

Court moves Nnamdi Kanu’s fundamental rights suit to Feb. 28

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A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, has adjourned until the 28th of this month, to hear a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu against the Department of State Services, its Director-General and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.

Kanu on behalf of his counsel, Maxwell Okpara, is suing the DSS and the AGF over an allegation of poor medical attention given to him in the detention facility of the DSS.

By the suit, the applicant wants an order of the court directing the Respondents to immediately allow him to appoint an independent medical practitioner of his choice from a certified government hospital to review his medical files.

Kanu is also seeking an order to allow him access to facility and material for the practice of his religion as well as to direct the Respondents to immediately remove him from solitary confinement.

When the matter came up for mentioning, it was discovered that the DSS was yet to serve it’s counter-affidavit on the applicant’s lawyer.

On its part, the office of the AGF filed a motion for extension of time within which to file its counter affidavit in opposition to the suit.

The judge, Justice Taiwo Taiwo therefore adjourned the matter for hearing.

FRCN, Abuja